Liberal Statement on Mental Illness Awareness Week

October 7, 2013

OTTAWA– The Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Justin Trudeau, made the following statement today on Mental Illness Awareness Week:

“On Mental Illness Awareness Week, we recognize the widespread impact of mental illness in our society. With one in five Canadians experiencing a mental health issue during their lifetime and at a cost to our economy of more than $50 billion annually, no one is untouched by its effects.

In my own life, I am continually inspired by my mother, Margaret, and the many other Canadians who have chosen to raise awareness about mental illness by sharing their personal struggles. Such frankness serves to fight the stigma of mental illness through education, communication and understanding.

Taking real action on prevention and access to care for those affected by mental illness, and the elimination of stigmas surrounding mental illness, must be a priority of the federal government. To that end, I call on the Harper Conservatives to do their part and work with the provinces to implement a comprehensive Canadian mental health strategy.”

Liberal Health Critic, Dr. Hedy Fry, continued:

“The Liberal Party of Canada continues to make mental health a priority. From our Opposition Day motion calling for a National Suicide Prevention Strategy to our continued appeals to the government to fully implement the Mental Health Commission’s landmark Mental Health Strategy for Canada, we are committed to pushing for concrete action on this issue both inside and outside Parliament.”